In 2008, 200 long-term CETAC clients formed the Friends of CETAC to demonstrate their support for CETAC. In addition to participating in the extensive CETAC network activities, this group’s goals include raising the profile of CETAC-WEST and raising funds so CETAC-WEST can help more innovators to commercialize new technologies. So far the Friends of CETAC has raised over $300,000 for CETAC’s clients.
In 2010 and 2013, the Friends of CETAC commissioned a market research company to conduct surveys of SMEs that CETAC-WEST had worked with in the previous 10 years. The following outcomes were observed among the respondents:
- A 93% survival rate,
- 70% had received financing,
- 1,200 new jobs created in just over 100 companies,
- Wages increased by $33 million
- Revenue increased collectively by $380 million, and
The generous contributions from the fundraisers ensured that the SMEs behind Alberta’s sustainability efforts would continue to achieve their fullest potential. With these proceeds, CETAC-WEST has chosen to assist their clients who are not in a position to pay, but would benefit from:
- SME Core Services for clients
- The Entrepreneur to CEO Workshop, covering the client’s Workshop registration and hotel fees
- Mentoring opportunities, covering a large portion of the associated fees.
